Climate change is causing widespread habitat deterioration and destruction and presents one of the biggest threats to species and global ecological function. Underwater kelp forests underpin fisheries and vast economic values on temperate coasts but are declining due to climate change. There is an urgent need to develop novel and proactive solutions to combat, reverse and prevent this habitat loss. Using 2 species of kelp from Australia as examples, I will discuss how genomic data is providing the evidence we need to assess vulnerability of kelp forests and “future-proof” management and restoration under climate change. By identifying genetic variation in thermal tolerance, we have identified target populations and individuals that could be used in assisted adaptation and restoration actions to boost resilience to future climate change.